Horse Show Days

One of the most important things for a show is to stay organized. Especially if you're going to a show at a different barn. Make sure everything is labeled so you don't lose it. If you are worried someone will steal something, put it somewhere with a lock so no one can steal it. Bathe the horse at least 1 day before the show. If you bathe them the day of the show, their natural oils in their skin won't be able to come back to make them shiny. Get their body, muzzle, bridle path, mane, and fetlocks clipped so they look nice and neat. On show day, or the day before, braid their mane and tail. If you braid them the day before the show, put a sleeve on it so it doesn't get destroyed if they rub on them. In some shows, you won't have to braid. On the day of the show, brush them so they are really clean. Spray some showsheen if you like to make them extra shiny. Don't spray any on the saddle area or your saddle will slip. Make sure to paint their hooves as well. Before you show, make sure your tack is all clean. It's a good idea to clean and oil it the day before the show. Store them in a place where they won't get too dirty. If they do use something to clean them off like Lexol saddle cleaner/conditioner wipes. It cleans off the dirt and conditions at the same time. The clothes you wear will depend on what type of show you do. For hunters/dressage you have to be more fancy and for jumpers you can be less fancy. Ask your trainer or a tack shop and they will help you with clothes. You have to wear your helmet with all your hair inside so get a hairnet. It will keep your hair from going everywhere in the helmet and it will be easier to get your hair in the helmet. If you are going to a show at a different barn, you need a lot more things. There are checklists online (like the one below) to help you remember all the things you need to bring. It would be a good idea to have a tack trunk or some kind of box to put your things in to stay organized. You can put locks on them so your stuff stays safe. It is always a good idea to bring money/checks to shows just in case.

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